Columbia River spring chinook season extended for upper Bonneville Pool to McNary Dam

Action:
The mainstem Columbia River from the Tower Island power lines (approximately 6 miles below The Dalles Dam) upstream to McNary Dam will remain open through May 3, 2007.

Effective dates:
Immediately through May 3, 2007.

Species affected:
Chinook, steelhead and shad.

Location:
The mainstem Columbia River from the Tower Island power lines (approximately 6 miles below The Dalles Dam) upstream to McNary Dam (see Closed Waters in the Sportfishing Rules Pamphlet).

Daily Limits:
Salmon - 6 fish of which only 2 may be adults. Only adipose fin-clipped (hatchery) salmon may be retained. Release all chum and sockeye.
Trout - 2 fish. All wild steelhead must be released. The minimum size for both salmon and trout is 12 inches. Shad - No daily limit or minimum size limit for shad.

Other Information:
It is unlawful to totally remove from the water any salmon or steelhead required to be released, except when fishing from vessels, which are a minimum of 30 feet in length, substantiated by Coast Guard documentation or Marine Board registration.

Reason for action:
ESA impacts allocated to this fishery remain available. The extension will allow for additional angler opportunity. The season is expected to allow for harvest of hatchery Chinook while minimizing impacts to ESA listed species.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.